World MS Day 2014

Today is World MS Day, a time dedicated to improving public understanding and support of multiple sclerosis (MS) in hopes of moving us closer to a world free of the disease. MS is a chronic, often disabling condition of the central nervous system in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective lining on nerve axons, myelin.

The theme of this year’s World MS Day is “access.” Throughout the month, people have been encouraged to share their wishes for overcoming barriers to health care, support services, work, educational opportunities and other things in their everyday lives with MS.

Organizations such as the National Multiple Sclerosis Society strive to help improve access through programs like “Partners in MS Care,” which recognizes and supports quality MS care. Kelli Doern, PT, DPT, NCS, a physical therapist at Sheltering Arms, was recently named a Partner in MS Care. As such, she is listed in the MS Society’s service provider database, as well as on their website for individuals looking for rehabilitation professionals with demonstrated knowledge and experience in evaluating and treating people with MS.

“With its wide variety of unpredictable symptoms, MS can become overwhelming. It’s important for people to have a support system to help them manage the symptoms and maximize their quality of life. I am committed to being one of these resources for my patients,” says Doern.

Please join Kelli, the entire Sheltering Arms team and organizations throughout the world in helping to raise awareness about MS and the effects it has in the lives of more than two million people today. Learn more and read the access-related wishes of people from across the globe at www.worldmsday.org.